The name Richard P. Anderson tops the memorial list of Santa Cruz High School students who lost their lives during the Korean War, yet nothing has been uncovered regarding his service record or death. The only information available is an article appearing in the Santa Cruz Sentinel at the time of his enlistment in the US Air Force.

“Joins Air Force
Richard Paul Anderson 1107 Seabright Avenue has enlisted in the United States Air Force for four years. He will be assigned to Parks air force base at Pleasanton for the airman indoctrination course.
Anderson is the son of Mrs. Lenora Anderson of Route 1, Felton, has lived with his aunt here, Mrs. Rebecca Pacini. He was graduated from Santa Cruz high school in 1951, and was a member of the local National Guard unit before enlisting.”

(SCSn November 6, 1952 3:5)
The cause of the death of Richard P. Anderson has not been found, nor has the location of his remains.